“Chelle Reveals Eagles’ Penalty Prep Ahead of Heartbreaking AFCON Semi-Final Loss”

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has insisted that Nigeria did prepare extensively for a penalty shoot‑out ahead of their 4‑2 loss to hosts Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final.

After a goalless 120 minutes in Rabat, the match was decided by spot kicks, with two Nigerian players failing to convert their attempts. Despite the defeat ending Nigeria’s hopes of reaching a second consecutive AFCON final, Chelle explained the team had worked on penalties in every training session and chose kickers based on their performance over the past month.

Chelle also said he made tactical substitutions late in the game — including bringing on Samuel Chukwueze — to boost Nigeria’s chances in the shoot-out, adding that the players showed determination throughout the match.

Though Nigeria will now contest a third‑place play‑off, Chelle said the squad must keep working hard and build on their efforts despite the painful exit.